By Air
Colombia is a large and mountainous country, and domestic flights are genuinely cheap by international standards. Avianca, LATAM Colombia, and Wingo connect all major cities, and fares between Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, Cali, and Santa Marta can be very affordable if booked ahead. Flying is usually the best option for long-haul journeys — bus routes are long, and some areas have poor road infrastructure.
By Bus
For medium distances, buses are the standard option. The intercity bus network is extensive and covers virtually everywhere. On main routes, you'll find comfortable coaches with air conditioning, reclining seats, and sometimes Wi-Fi. Look for companies like Expreso Brasilia, Bolivariano, and Rápido Ochoa. Book ahead for busy routes, especially around holidays.
For shorter hops and rural routes, smaller buses and shared minibuses (known as busetas or colectivos) are the norm. These are slower and less comfortable but often the only option off the main highways.
In Cities
Bogotá has TransMilenio, a bus rapid transit system with dedicated lanes running across the city. It's frequent, cheap (around 3,200 pesos per trip), and the fastest way to get across the city — though it gets packed during rush hours. Bogotá also has a rapidly expanding Metro system, with the first lines expected to open in the late 2020s.
Medellín has a metro plus two aerial gondola lines (Metrocable) connecting hillside neighbourhoods. It's efficient and worth using even just to see the city from above.
Use ride-hailing apps — Uber, InDriver, and the Colombian app Cabify all operate in major cities. Avoid hailing random taxis from the street, particularly at night, due to the risk of robbery. If you must take a street taxi, use one booked through an app or called by your hotel.
By Car
Renting a car gives flexibility but comes with caveats. Road quality varies significantly outside major routes. Certain areas remain off-limits due to security concerns. If you're driving, avoid travelling at night on rural roads, and never stop for strangers waving you down.
By Boat
River travel is important in remote Amazonian and Pacific regions. In the Amazon, boats are the main form of transport between Leticia and outlying communities. On the Pacific coast, small launches connect coastal towns. Journey times can be long — bring a hammock if you're travelling overnight on a river cargo boat.